Carlton Mfg Co Reels - Rochester, NY -

Carlton Mfg Co reels were made from 1903 to 1907. Harvey Carlton started the Carlton Manufacturing Co. in 1903. He made bait casting reels and fly reels. He received several patents for his bait casting and automatic fly reels. One of his reels had the unique feature of a 9 to 1 multiplying gear ratio. For each revolution of the crank handle, the reel spool would revolve 9 times. This reel also had additional features that are shown in his May 23, 1905 patent. The rear end plate had a brake and a click sliding switch. Carlton also made the more traditional bait casting reels with 4 to 1 gear ratios. The Carlton fly reels were designed to be light, yet sturdy. Three different models were made including a side-mount version named the Lightweight. Carlton Mfg Co reels with the Carlton name were only made for about 5 years. The company name was changed to Rochester Reel Co. in 1908. Harvey Carlton is considered to be one of the great New York reel makers.